The Civil Rights Roundtable titled; "Black Mayors: Symbols of Success or Scapegoats for America's Problems?" will be held at 10:45 a.m. on Friday, July 29 as part of the National Urban League Annual Conference, which takes place July 27th - 31st at the Washington Convention Center.

Roundtable members include The Honorable David N. Dinkins Former Mayor of New York City, and Professor in the Practice of Public Affairs, School of International and Public Affairs & Senior Fellow, Columbia Center for Urban Research Policy at Columbia University; The Honorable Richard Hatcher, Former Mayor of Gary, Indiana; The Honorable Willie W. Herenton, Mayor of Memphis, Tennessee. The Honorable Ron Kirk, Former Mayor of Dallas, Texas and Partner, Vinson & Elkins, LLP will preside.

Over the past 50 years the American political system has opened itself to black participation, and in the arena of urban politics especially, cities find themselves governed with increasing frequency by African-American mayors. But with fewer dollars to fill growing urban needs and more control falling into the hands of city councils and managers, how much power is left for black mayors to successfully wield? When the votes are tallied, do they inherit real opportunity ... or a legacy of urban decay they can't reasonably hope to reverse?

Highlights of the 2005 conference include a wellness walk, empowerment exhibits, strategic vision sessions and activities targeted to young professionals between the ages of 21 to 40 as part of a special agenda called the Influencer Summit, designed to recognize and empower the emerging leaders of the future.

In addition, strategic forums will address diversity, closing the achievement gap, sports panels, international affairs, business development, health roundtable, community policing, civil rights and civic engagement, homeownership, franchise ownership and small business development.

Admission to the Empowerment Exhibits Zones is free. The empowerment exhibits zones will feature an employment, health, technology, homeownership and fun zones. This year's employment zone will feature the participation of more than 100 Fortune 500 and high-tech companies, as well as non-profit and government agencies with both local and national job opportunities. Job seekers can have face-to-face discussions and interviews with recruiters.

More information about the National Urban League's 2005 Annual Conference registration, exhibitor or sponsorship opportunities is available on the League's website at www.nul.org or by calling (800-263-9926).